Where Magical meets Practical

Helping us fight Domestic Voilence

My dedication to the Hiatus House is based on my own experiences with domestic violence, childhood abuse, and my journey to end that cycle within my own family. Twenty years ago I attended their Fresh Start program before entering the program for co-dependency at Westover.

Overcoming the pattern of abuse is a hard and long road. Most of us who have made this
decision face danger when we try to leave, and endure loss and hardship on many levels, and tend to repeat the same patterns even though we are constantly working on making different choices.

Hiatus House offers support on every level including a safe place to stay, counselling for the whole family, support for children, and group programs. When I toured the facility last year, I was impressed at the help and support they offer. Leaving a dangerous situation is only the beginning. The real work comes in when you make the commitment to yourself and children to stop the cycle. This is where personal support, counseling, safe housing, and group therapy comes in. Hiatus House helps you to acquire new knowledge and skills to help you make a positive change, and end the cycle of abuse for your children.

I am grateful that many people have felt comfortable to share their stories of survival and change with me at Smudge. Every day I am inspired by your strength and determination to grow and change for a better life. This is not easy, and is a life long journey, but sharing makes it a bit easier, and reminds us that we are not alone. My mission statement and purpose behind Smudge is of personal growth, self-expression, and acquiring a new perspective. I live this every day, and am honored to hold a space where others can do the same.

I thank you all from the bottom of my heart for all of your love and support. I wish you all a blessed new year, and a home filled with peace and love.